Researches at Penn State have conducted a study of traits people find most attractive in a partner, and one trait that ranks highly is playfulness. Humans are distinct from the rest of the animal kingdom in that we continue to play as adults (ahem, some of longer than others, perma-bachelors!), and evidently, we like that about each other. The biological theory is that women view playful men as non-aggressive and less likely to harm them or their children, while men think playfulness women is a sign of youth and fertility.

Even without the scientific explanation, it makes sense right? Hand in hand with a great sense of humor, I think most of us love a guy that likes to dish out some witty banter, will challenge you to a rousing round of mini golf, or tickles you until you cry from laughing. Granted, this study was conducted amongst undergraduate students, but I think we retain our appreciation of playfulness, and maybe even appreciate it more as we get older and are forced to have more responsibility and take things seriously. We need a little relief! All work and no play makes for a boring life and a boring partner.

Is your boyfriend the playful type? What kind of fun things do you do together? Are you fun-loving or a little more serious?

Other things that increase attraction (I don't recommend all of them, though!):